Big bang as a topological quantum phase transition

It has been argued that a particular type of quantum-vacuum variable q can provide a solution to the main cosmological constant problem and possibly also give a cold-dark-matter component. We now show that the same q field may suggest a new interpretation of the big bang, namely as a quantum phase transition between topologically inequivalent vacua. These two vacua are characterized by the equilibrium values q = +/- q(0), and there is a kink-type solution q(t) interpolating between q = -q(0) for t -> -infinity and q = +q(0) for t -> infinity, with conformal symmetry for q = 0 at t = 0.

Automated summary

This article discusses a particular type of quantum-vacuum variable q as a possible solution to the cosmological constant problem and its potential role as a cold-dark-matter component. Additionally, the author suggests a new interpretation of the big bang as a quantum phase transition between topologically inequivalent vacua.